Demetrius: A Play by Friedrich Schiller

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About this eBook

Author Schiller, Friedrich, 1759-1805
Title Demetrius: A Play
Credits Produced by Tapio Riikonen and David Widger
Summary "Demetrius: A Play by Friedrich Schiller" is a historical drama that explores themes of power, identity, and the quest for legitimacy in the context of Russian and Polish politics during the late 18th century. The play is set against the backdrop of the tumultuous succession in Russia following the death of Ivan IV, examining the claims of Prince Demetrius, who asserts his right to the Russian throne as the rightful heir. Friedrich Schiller, a prominent German playwright of the late 18th and early 19th centuries, penned this work during a time when notions of nationalism and individual identity were taking shape across Europe. The narrative centers on Demetrius, who, having claimed to be the son of Ivan IV—thought to have died in a fire—faces skepticism and intrigue as he seeks to gain the Polish Diet's support for his bid to reclaim the Russian throne. Throughout the play, key characters such as the skeptical Polish nobles, Demetrius’s mother Marfa, and the cunning opposer Boris Godunow engage in a political and emotional battle over the true nature of identity, loyalty, and power. As Demetrius gains momentum and support from various factions, he is haunted by the fragility of his claims and the treacherous path he must navigate. The climax is marked by a violent conspiracy that leads to Demetrius's tragic downfall, symbolizing the perilous intersection of personal ambition and the harsh realities of political machinations. Ultimately, Schiller's work raises profound questions about authenticity and the cost of power, making it a significant commentary on human aspirations and moral dilemmas. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
Language English
LoC Class PT: Language and Literatures: Germanic, Scandinavian, and Icelandic literatures
Subject Drama
Category Text
EBook-No. 6790
Release Date
Most Recently Updated Dec 30, 2020
Copyright Status Public domain in the USA.
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